The 32-year-old has signed an 18-month deal, and now one of United’s current backup keepers Anders Lindegard and Ben Amos will surely be allowed to leave the club this January.

Valdes is a legend of the modern game, having won six La Liga titles, and three Champions League trophies with Barcelona since making his debut nearly 15 years ago.

He’s renowned for his excellent ability with the ball at his feet, as well as his quick reflexes – which make him a superb shot-stopper. Whether he’ll be able to deal with the physicality of the English game and regular crosses into the box is of course another matter, although with De Gea rated as the best in the top flight, we might not see too much of Valdes anyway.